The details matter

[TCinVA]

Fair warning: This video contains some adult language

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYvAx...&feature=feedu

Frequently in the firearms world individuals are exposed to techniques through forums, through video, through pictures, or in face to face discussions with other people. Whereas in say, aviation, most pilots would be reluctant to attempt to imitate an advanced technique without the requisite instruction, hours in the air, and the right aircraft for the job...when it comes to firearms there seems to be no hesitation whatsoever to do something without understanding the hows and whys of the technique...or of the particular risks associated with it.

In real training on retention shooting led by competent, qualified instructors, the moment where a student attempts to fire close quarters shots at a target is preceded by lectures on the details of the proper technique, demonstrations using blue guns/airsoft/finger guns/etc, slow repetitions of the technique with an emphasis on flawless execution, and copious discussion of safety. Generally the careful preparation that precedes the moment when a qualified instructor has a student attempt a retention shooting technique is never mentioned in any of the other methods of exposure.

When it comes to handling firearms, details matter. It takes only a split second of inattention to launch a round that can forever alter or even end a life.

We try to emphasize safety here on PF.com precisely because enough of us have spent time on a range watching even well-trained shooters make mistakes to have learned that unintentional discharges (the debate about an "accidental" discharge versus a "negligent" discharge is idiotic, IMO...it utterly misses the point) can happen to any of us at any time. This is why we layer safety procedures, talk about safety all the time, emphasize safety when we're on the range together, or perhaps even invent new Gadgets designed to ward off Murphy's Law when everything else has failed.

We also try to encourage fully understanding the potential risks of one's equipment choices and taking appropriate action to minimize them.

We strive do to those things in hopes of avoiding what is seen in that video.

[rsa-otc]

As usual great post TC. Can't add anything to it.

[Kyle Reese]

This happened as a result of

*Going too fast for level of training/skill (disengaging the thumb safety on the 1911 while weapon was still in the holster, bad idea with a SERPA)

*Using a holster where retention must be manually disengaged with trigger finger

Combining these 2 factors, as well as using a pistol like the 1911 (with it's very short trigger travel/reset), is a recipe for total disaster. I'm not comfortable with the finger going on the trigger until the press out is being performed, and the SERPA's retention mechanism just invites bad things happening.

There's a reason why many reputable firearms trainers do not allow the SERPA holsters in their classes. This video illustrates why that is a prudent decision.

When carrying a gun, a quality holster is a must. This is not an area where you want to do it on the cheap.

Just my humble opinion.

[jslaker]

Thanks for sharing, TC.

This happened as a result of

*Going too fast for level of training/skill (disengaging the thumb safety on the 1911 while weapon was still in the holster, bad idea with a SERPA)

*Using a holster where retention must be manually disengaged with trigger finger

Combining these 2 factors, as well as using a pistol like the 1911 (with it's very short trigger travel/reset), is a recipe for total disaster. I'm not comfortable with the finger going on the trigger until the press out is being performed, and the SERPA's retention mechanism just invites bad things happening.

There's a reason why many reputable firearms trainers do not allow the SERPA holsters in their classes. This video illustrates why that is a prudent decision.

When carrying a gun, a quality holster is a must. This is not an area where you want to do it on the cheap.

Just my humble opinion.

Pretty much spot on.

I think the man in the video actually identifies another important factor - moving between drastically different equipment in short order.